(That's Shanghai)
Updated: 2007-10-12 09:55

On paper, Mansion Veranda is a more refined and service-oriented outlet than its predecessor, the mid-range Magnolia.

In practice, however, the Mansion Hotel's new rooftop restaurant fails spectacularly. Our Cold Bloody Mary soup, with bits of cod poached in vodka and black pepper (RMB 98, plus 15 per cent), tasted like a canned tomato puree.

Next, the fillet of salmon au gratin (RMB 168, plus 15 per cent) was served well-done instead of medium-rare, and the accompanying eggplant was unevenly cooked. But the lowlight of our experience was undoubtedly the service; the staff waited an inconceivable 45 minutes before placing our orders.

We left with lighter wallets but heavier hearts, dismayed to see such wasted potential in this gorgeous restaurant space.

Mansion Veranda
Open: Daily 9am-2am.
Location: The Mansion Hotel, 4/F, 82 Xinle Lu, by Xiangyang Nan Lu
Tel: 021-54036692
Cost for two (excluding drinks): RMB 641